The city of Henderson, Nevada has experienced rapid growth and development over the past decade. Major construction projects have transformed large swaths of the Las Vegas suburb, bringing new housing, businesses, and infrastructure. However, this construction boom has also led to an increase in workplace injuries for construction workers and others involved in the building trades.
The Ongoing Building Boom in Henderson
Henderson has consistently ranked as one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. The population has surged from just over 175,000 residents in 2000 to over 320,000 as of 2019. This influx of new residents has fueled strong demand for new housing, retail, and other facilities.
Major master-planned communities like Inspirada and Cadence have taken shape, adding thousands of homes. Large retail centers and shopping malls have also popped up across Henderson, including The District at Green Valley Ranch and Tivoli Village. Other projects include commercial developments along the Henderson Technology Corridor as well as the construction of the Raiders NFL stadium and training facility.
All of this growth requires an army of construction workers. The heavy pace of development has made construction one of the largest industries in Henderson. This building boom provides many benefits for the region, but also carries risks for those working on job sites each day.
The Most Common Injuries for Construction Workers
Working in construction is inherently hazardous compared to most other professions. Construction consistently ranks among the occupations with the highest rates of workplace injuries and fatalities each year. For example:
- Falls from heights are a leading cause of injuries and deaths on construction sites. Scaffolds, ladders, and rooftops all pose fall risks.
- Being struck by objects causes many blunt force traumas and crushing injuries. Construction debris, tools, and vehicles/equipment can all strike workers on busy job sites.
- Muscle strains and back injuries are common due to heavy lifting, awkward postures, and repetitive motions during construction tasks.
- Lacerations and puncture wounds often occur when operating tools and handling materials with sharp edges. Nails, metal studs, and other materials can inflict nasty cuts.
- Electrical accidents present a serious hazard, especially when working around live power lines or faulty cords/tools. Electrical burns and electrocutions are not uncommon.
- Heat illnesses are also a risk as construction work often occurs outdoors in Nevada’s hot and arid desert climate.
In one study examining over 70,000 construction industry claims, the most frequently reported injuries were wounds, fractures, burns, soreness/pain, and multiple trauma. Back injuries accounted for over 20% of claims.
Why Injury Rates Are Increasing with Henderson’s Growth
Henderson’s construction boom has increased the risks of workplace injuries in several key ways:
1. Sheer Increase in Construction Volume and Pace
With more construction projects and workers active across the region, there are simply more opportunities for job site accidents and injuries to occur. The fast pace of development also increases pressure on workers to move quickly, which can compromise safety. Rushing raises the risks of mistakes and fatigue.
2. Shortage of Skilled Labor
The huge demand for construction labor has made it difficult for companies to find enough qualified, experienced workers. Labor shortages result in more rookie workers on the job who lack adequate training and skill. Newer construction workers face higher risks of accidents and mistakes leading to injuries.
3. Long Work Hours/Schedule Pressure
Lengthy work hours are common in the construction industry in general, and this problem seems to be exacerbated in Henderson currently. Workers may stay on the job up to 60 hours a week or more to keep projects moving forward on time. However, fatigue and mental weariness increase risks substantially.
4. Communication Challenges/Language Barriers
The workforce at many Henderson construction sites consists of diverse backgrounds, including Hispanic immigrants and non-English speakers. Language and cultural barriers can impede effective safety communication and training. Workers may not understand hazards or proper precautions.
5. Economic Pressure to Avoid Reporting
Despite laws requiring injury reporting, some immigrant and undocumented construction workers fear loss of employment or deportation if they report injuries. They may also lack health insurance/workers’ comp. Some may not report injuries in order to keep working and avoid missing wages. Lack of reporting skews injury data.
Preventing Construction Injuries is Key
While the risks may be rising, construction injuries are often preventable with proper safety policies, training, and vigilance on the work site. Some best practices include:
- Providing adequate fall protection – guardrails, nets, harnesses and anchors can prevent dangerous falls. Enforce use policies.
- Training all workers to recognize hazards and follow safety procedures, especially new hires. Offer training in multiple languages as needed.
- Keeping job sites clean and well-organized to minimize tripping/struck-by hazards. Proper staging of materials and tools prevents accidents.
- Planning work carefully to minimize rushed or dangerous tasks. Allow adequate time for all construction phases.
- Providing proper protective gear like harnesses, gloves, eye protection, and hard hats. Make sure equipment and tools are in good working order.
- Having adequate supervision by foremen and managers to monitor work and enforce safety protocols.
- Allowing breaks and job rotation to avoid overexertion or fatigue. Stay alert to heat exhaustion risks and provide water.
- Creating a culture of open communication where workers can raise safety concerns freely without fear of retaliation.
Seek Experienced Legal Help if Injured at Work
Construction workers who suffer an on-the-job injury deserve compensation to cover their damages, lost income, and recovery. However, obtaining fair workers compensation benefits can be difficult, especially when safety regulations were violated by employers. In these cases, consider consulting with a work injury attorney Henderson NV. An experienced lawyer can investigate accident causes, build a strong claim, and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.
For a free consultation on any Henderson construction accident case, contact the legal team at Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys by calling 800-4THE-WIN (800-484-3946). Our attorneys have helped injured local workers recover millions of dollars. Contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation with a Henderson work injury lawyer.
